Give Mark Cranswick anything with an engine in it and he'll soon turn it into a racing machine.
The owner of Lakeland Chainsaws and Mowers, who has modified a ride-on mower and turned it into a speed demon's dream machine, is organising a lawnmower race at this year's Rotorua
A&P; Show.
He's hooked after taking part in a fundraising race for a Tauranga school recently.
"I guess throughout the ages humans have always wanted to race. You give a man a horse and what does he want to do with it? Race it. They even race bar stools these days. Guys always want to make things go faster." Once modified, some mowers can go pretty fast - up to 80km/h.
"It's a real adrenalin rush. It all depends on driver ability really but you can get it up to some good speeds," Mr Cranswick said.
Lawnmower racing was a growing sport and he expected drivers from throughout the country to enter the new event at Rotorua's agricultural show later this month.
"We've got a group from 90 Mile Beach coming down. It's a growing fad that a lot of guys are really enjoying. These guys modify and soup up these machines. Once you give it a go, you are hooked," he said.
Entry for the A&P; Show race is $5 with money raised going to the Ronald McDonald House being built in Rotorua.
The race will be held on Sunday, January 27, but entries close next week.
Those wanting to enter can phone Mr Cranswick on (07) 348 8141 or email lcmltd@xtra.co.nz.
